Warranty void due to delay in returning item

I purchased earphones, and a week before the warranty expires, my earphones developed an issue. I logged en enquiry with Takealot.com, explaining that I am unable to return the item - I am currently at work outside of South Africa. I was advised by their agent that if I am unable to return the item within the warranty period, I would not be able to claim, and they would not register a claim and set a collection date for the item after I return to SA (2 weeks later). So I am left with a few unanswered questions: 1. Why was I not advised that I can`t travel outside of SA with my earphones? 2. Why can you not register a claim, and set the collection date for later? 3. Where are all these rules in the fine print?

Before buying from Takealot.com, please be aware that there is no warranty if you cannot return the item in the time stipulated by Takealot.

Takealot.com, please look at my purchase history - you've just lost a customer over a 2 week delay request!